Name: __________________________
Date: __________
Period: ____
Expository Essay
TOPIC 1:
We all have memories and experiences in our lives that shape the way we see life and how we form
relationships with others. Think carefully about the most challenging obstacle you had to overcome in your
life. Explain how it shaped the way you see life today, how you act, and how you form relationships with
others. Use an example from literature, a film, or a current event to enhance your writing.
30 minutes
**Remember, all essays count as test grades.
BRAINSTORM BELOW:
We all have memories and experiences in our lives that shape the way we see life
and how we form relationships with others. Think carefully about the most
challenging obstacle you had to overcome in your life. Explain (1) how it shaped
the way you see life today, (2) how you act, and (3) how you form relationships
with others. Use an example from literature, a film, or a current event to
enhance your writing. (meaningful connections)
QUOTE 1:
As part of a language arts class assignment, you have been asked to identify what the follow quote means to you
and its significance.
“It is not enough to have a good mind. The
main thing is to use it well.”
René Descartes (1596 –1650)
TOPIC 2:
Life can be full of pleasant surprises. Identify a time when you
experienced a pleasant surprise.
Write an essay about a time when you experienced a pleasant surprise.
Explain why this surprise was unexpected and how it affected your life in
a positive way. Be sure to explain your choice by using details and
examples.
TOPIC 3:
Most people have a special activity or hobby that they enjoy. Some people
collect things while others like to read or play games. What activity do
you like to do?
Write an essay describing what you enjoy doing. Explain why that activity
is special to you. Be sure to include details and facts to support your
explanation.
Topic 4:
Many students enjoy doing something special for their family and friends.
For example, they may take care of their younger sibling or help to cook a
favorite meal.
Write an essay that describes something special that you would like to
do for your family or friends. Explain why this would be something
special and how your family or friends might react. Be sure to include
details and facts to support your explanation.
Quote 2:
You have been asked to consider how the following quotation is related to
you.
“It is not enough to have a good mind. The main thing is to use it well.”
--René Descartes (1596 – 1650)
Write an essay explaining what this quotation means to you. Use details
and examples in your essay.
Topic 5:
Some students like to plan every activity that they do each day. Some
prefer to go through the day with as little planning as possible. Think of a
day in your life that was especially enjoyable. Was it a day that you had
carefully planned or one that was unplanned?
Write an essay about a day that you enjoyed which was either planned
or unplanned. Be sure to use details, examples and reasons in your
explanation.